Rugby Union 2 years ago

Pulver backing Cheika and Wallabies

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - FEBRUARY 10: Australian Rugby CEO Bill Pulver discusses a major partnership announcement between Australian Rugby Union and BMW during a press conference at BMW Sydney on February 10, 2016 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images for BMW)

Australian Rugby Union boss Bill Pulver says Wallabies coach Michael Cheika's position isn't under pressure despite five straight losses culminating in last Saturday's 42-8 thrashing by the All Blacks.

Pulver on Wednesday tipping a much-improved showing in Saturday's return clash with New Zealand in Wellington and reiterated Cheika would coach the team through to the 2019 World Cup.

"Our national coach is hurting and really the entire team is hurting," said Pulver. "That's why I'm really confident you're going to see a team that does play with a lot of pride on the line this weekend and I think you'll see a far superior performance," Pulver said.